Appeal for information after Cranage timber yard fire

Officers from Crewe CID are appealing for information from the public following an arson attack at a business premises in Cranage.

Shortly after 8.45pm on Wednesday 4 July emergency services were called to reports of a multiple explosions at Holmes Chapel Fencing and Gates on Knutsford Road in Cranage.

On arrival at the scene firefighters discovered a large fire, covering an area approximately 40 metres by 30 metres. Within the fire there were six gas cylinders, two of which had exploded.

More than 20 firefighters from Cheshire Fires and Rescue Service worked throughout the night to tackle the fire and prevent the remaining cylinders from exploding; while special constables from the Cheshire Police assisted with road closures and safety cordons.

Following investigations the incident is now being treated as arson.

DC Tom Vass said: “This was a serious incident which has caused significant damage resulting in a large financial loss to the victim and put people’s lives at risk. Thankfully no one was hurt.

“CCTV footage from the scene clearly shows a number of lit objects being thrown over the fence from the rear of the site between 8.29pm and 8.37pm.

“This business is located on a busy road and is also bordered by a public footpath which is popular with dog walkers, and I believe that there may have been people in the area who may be able to assist with our investigation.

“I urge anyone with any information, no matter how small, to contact the team here at Crewe on 101 quoting IML 113603. You can also report online at https://cheshire.police.uk/contact/general-enquiries.”

Colin Heyes from Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “Arson is extremely dangerous and any fire puts the lives of the public and firefighters at considerable risk – it also takes up a lot of valuable time and resources. I would ask anyone with any information in relation to the incident in Cranage to contact Cheshire Police.”

Information can also be reported anonymously, Via Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.